Massey Ferguson 281XE Specs, Price and Review (2026)
Agricultural · 65.6 HP · Best for small farms and versatility
Power
65.6 HP (49 kW)
Fuel
Diesel
Transmission
Manual
PTO
56 HP @ 540 rpm
Weight
2,631 kg (3 t)
New price (est.)
$41,564 – $62,346
Est. used price
$14,547 – $43,642
Overview
Powered by a 65.6 HP engine, the Massey Ferguson 281XE is a agricultural tractor designed for mid-size farm fieldwork, loader use, and hay operations. Built by Massey Ferguson, the 281XE carries the engineering standards expected from this manufacturer. Here you will find all 281XE specs: engine displacement, fuel system, transmission gears, hydraulic flow, lift capacity, PTO speed, and tractor dimensions. Our 281XE review section below breaks down real-world strengths, trade-offs, and best use cases based on the technical specifications. Looking for the 281XE price? Our used market section estimates current resale values, and the listings panel links to live marketplace data. Scroll down for the complete Massey Ferguson 281XE specification tables, suitability scores, price estimates, and links to similar tractors in our database.
TractorFit™ Analysis
Overall score
Based on specs and use-case fit for Massey Ferguson 281XE.
A mainstream farm segment for fieldwork, feeding, and material handling. Manual transmission keeps ownership costs down and is well understood for maintenance. Farm-oriented design prioritizes drawbar and PTO work, hydraulics, and durability. PTO specs determine compatibility with mowers, balers, and other powered attachments. Key specs include 65.6 HP, 56 HP PTO, 3 t operating weight, estimated used range $14,547–$43,642, and overall suitability 57/100.
Higher = simpler
Pros
- ✓Well suited to small and mid-size farms for power and maneuverability.
- ✓Efficient consumption relative to power-to-weight and engine type.
- ✓Simple maintenance; mechanical transmission with lower repair costs.
- ✓High versatility: PTO and hydraulic options for multiple implements.
- ✓Strong value for money relative to power and features.
- ✓Reliable manual transmission with low maintenance cost.
Cons
- •Limited power for large-scale work or heavy equipment.
- •Limited capacity for intensive loader work.
- •Modest power-to-weight ratio; less agility in traction and on slopes.
- •Basic hydraulic system; limited for demanding implements.
Massey Ferguson 281XE receives an overall suitability score of 57/100 from the TractorSuitability™ Engine. Ideal for small to mid-size farms (roughly 5–40 ha), light fieldwork, mowing, and properties where maneuverability matters, mixed use with multiple PTO and hydraulic implements, operations where fuel economy is a priority. The suitability sub-scores allow an objective comparison of performance across farm sizes and use types. With 65.6 HP and around 3 tons weight, it fits small and mid-size farms where maneuverability and running costs matter. Loader work rates 22/100; fuel efficiency index is 70/100. Maintenance is classified as Low: Mechanical transmission and straightforward engine design; lower repair costs and easier DIY or general dealer servicing. Operating cost tier is Low: Good fuel efficiency, strong value tier, and low maintenance complexity keep operating costs down. Versatility (71/100) reflects PTO and hydraulic options; cost tier (74/100) reflects value for money. It stands out in: small farm. It has relative limitations in: large farm, loader. Overall, it offers a balanced profile for its class. The TractorSuitability™ Engine uses manufacturer technical data only to compute these indices in an objective, reproducible way. We recommend comparing these scores with your specific acreage, crop type, and implement needs before deciding.
Real-world performance & ownership
Highlights
- HP band suits full-season fieldwork and feeding.
- Manual transmission keeps design simple and ownership costs lower.
- 3 t operating weight fits a broad range of implements and conditions.
- Rated PTO output of 56 HP supports mowers, hay tools, and other driven implements.
- Suitability profile is solid across typical use cases.
- Fuel efficiency scores well for its power class.
- Versatility index supports a wide range of tasks and attachments.
- Estimated used price range: $14,547–$43,642 USD.
Trade-offs
- Maintenance complexity is rated on the higher side; factor in service access and parts availability.
- Loader and front attachment suitability is limited by design; best for lighter loader duties.
Best for
- Row-crop and hay operations
- Feeding and material handling
- Full-season fieldwork
- Fuel-conscious operation
- Mixed tasks and attachment use
Not ideal for
- Heavy, continuous loader work
- Low-maintenance-first buyers
Massey Ferguson 281XE — Pros and Cons
Pros
- HP band suits full-season fieldwork and feeding.
- Manual transmission keeps design simple and ownership costs lower.
- 3 t operating weight fits a broad range of implements and conditions.
- Rated PTO output of 56 HP supports mowers, hay tools, and other driven implements.
- Suitability profile is solid across typical use cases.
- Fuel efficiency scores well for its power class.
- Versatility index supports a wide range of tasks and attachments.
- Estimated used price range: $14,547–$43,642 USD.
Cons
- Maintenance complexity is rated on the higher side; factor in service access and parts availability.
- Loader and front attachment suitability is limited by design; best for lighter loader duties.
Used market insights
Estimated used price
$14,547 – $43,642 USD
High confidence
Estimate only. Actual prices vary by condition, hours, and region.
Buyer checklist
- Check engine and PTO hours; service history matters for long-term reliability.
- Confirm PTO speed (540/1000) and HP match your mowers, balers, or other implements.
- Inspect hydraulics and three-point hitch condition; repair costs can be high.
For used Massey Ferguson 281XE, hours and service history matter. Confirm PTO and hydraulic operation, tire condition, and that implements match your HP and category.
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Technical Specifications
What this means: Gross HP and torque influence implement sizing; diesel is standard for farm use and longevity.
Engine
- Maximum Power (Gross)
- 65.6 HP (49 kW)
- Fuel Type
- Diesel
- Cooling
- Liquid
Documentation & Resources
Compare with similar models
Better Alternatives
Frequently asked questions
What is the Massey Ferguson 281XE best used for?
As a farm tractor, the Massey Ferguson 281XE is suited to fieldwork, PTO-driven implements, hay work, and general estate or small-farm tasks.
What type of transmission does the Massey Ferguson 281XE have?
The Massey Ferguson 281XE uses a manual transmission.
What should I check when buying a used Massey Ferguson 281XE?
Verify hours, condition, service history, PTO operation, hydraulics, and tire wear. Confirm weight and dimensions if you need to transport or match implements.
What fuel does the Massey Ferguson 281XE use?
The Massey Ferguson 281XE uses diesel fuel.
What is the weight of the Massey Ferguson 281XE?
Operating weight is approximately 2,631 kg (3 tons).
Where can I find used Massey Ferguson 281XE listings?
This page links to international marketplaces where you can search for used Massey Ferguson 281XE tractors; listings are provided by third parties.
How much does a used Massey Ferguson 281XE cost?
Used Massey Ferguson 281XE tractors are often listed in the range of $14,547–$43,642 USD (high confidence). Actual prices depend on hours, condition, and region.
Does the Massey Ferguson 281XE have a PTO?
Yes. The Massey Ferguson 281XE has a rear PTO rated at 56 HP at 540 rpm.
What is the horsepower of the Massey Ferguson 281XE?
The Massey Ferguson 281XE is rated at 65.6 HP (gross) (49 kW).
Is the Massey Ferguson 281XE good for loader work?
TractorFit scores rate this model as less suited for loader work (22/100). Check front axle capacity and loader compatibility for your intended use.
Massey Ferguson 281XE: Complete Tractor Specifications and Technical Data
Overview
The Massey Ferguson 281XE is a agricultural tractor from Massey Ferguson designed for agricultural operations. This comprehensive tractor specifications guide provides complete technical data, engine specifications, transmission details, dimensions, and hydraulic system capabilities. This agricultural tractor features a 65.6 HP diesel engine with manual transmission, delivering reliable performance. Our tractor database provides detailed specifications and technical data for the Massey Ferguson 281XE, making it easy to compare with other models in the Massey Ferguson lineup or across different brands.
Engine Specifications
The Massey Ferguson 281XE is powered by a diesel engine that delivers 65.6 HP for agricultural tasks. Tractor horsepower is a critical specification that determines the machine's ability to handle various implements. The engine specifications demonstrate Massey Ferguson's engineering expertise in creating efficient powerplants.
- Maximum Power: 65.6 HP (49 kW)
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Cooling System: Liquid-cooled
Transmission Specifications
The Massey Ferguson 281XE features a manual transmission system. Transmission type affects power delivery and operational efficiency. Different transmission types offer various advantages for different operating conditions and implement requirements.
Dimensions and Weight
Understanding tractor dimensions and weight is essential for storage, transport, and operational compatibility. The Massey Ferguson 281XE's specifications help determine if the tractor fits your operational requirements.
- Weight: 2631 kg (5800 lbs)
Power Take-Off (PTO)
The PTO system allows the tractor to transfer engine power to driven implements. PTO specifications, including horsepower and speed ratings, are essential when selecting implements.
- PTO Speed: 540 rpm
- PTO Power: 56 HP (42 kW)
Performance and Applications
The Massey Ferguson 281XE delivers 65.6 HP performance for agricultural applications including plowing, planting, and harvesting. Tractor performance metrics, including power output, hydraulic capabilities, and dimensions, determine the machine's suitability for various tasks. When evaluating tractor performance, consider your specific application requirements, operating conditions, and implement needs to ensure the Massey Ferguson 281XE matches your operational demands.
Technical Data Summary
This guide provides complete technical data and detailed specifications for the Massey Ferguson 281XE. Key specifications include: 65.6 HP engine, manual transmission, 56 HP PTO, and 2631 kg weight. These tractor specifications enable accurate comparisons with other models. Our tractor database provides comprehensive data for thousands of models, making it easy to research specifications and compare tractors.
Conclusion
The Massey Ferguson 281XE is a reliable agricultural tractor from Massey Ferguson, designed for modern farming operations. With its 65.6 HP diesel engine and manual transmission, weighing 3 tons, it provides dependable performance for agricultural tasks. This comprehensive guide offers all essential Massey Ferguson 281XE tractor data and specifications for informed decision-making.
Conclusion
With 65.6 HP, the Massey Ferguson 281XE is a solid choice for operators who need Row-crop and hay operations, Feeding and material handling, Full-season fieldwork. Check the price range shown above and compare with similar models to ensure it fits your budget. Use our comparison tool to stack the 281XE against other tractors in the same HP range before making a final decision.